Meet a YB Volunteer: Jane Uptegrove

After hearing about YouthBuild from my good friend Marty Brigham and attending one of the graduations a few years ago, I was hoping to be able to get involved with this program knowing it’s accomplishments helping students who are trying again to succeed.

What is a take away you’ve had so far?

I love the optimism of the students, their perseverance, their commitment to their values of making a difference, their awareness of their ability to make a difference, their open-ness to learning and growth, and their self-confidence.

What’s a notable moment you’ve had with a student?

I was working with a student who had written a statement about helping children achieve their dream by establishing a safe environment. I was so moved by her powerful statement that the student was concerned about me!

Share a little bit about what you do outside of YouthBuild.

I am a recently retired geologist who worked for the state of New Jersey. I’ve lived in Philly since 1975 so I value this opportunity to get involved in my city again.